Ulises de la Cruz

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Records

De la Cruz's football career is notable for several firsts. He was the first Ecuadorian to play in Scottish football, and he helped Ecuador qualify for its first World Cup in 2002. His 101 caps place him among Ecuador's most capped players. Winning the Copa Libertadores with Cruzeiro in 1997 remains a highlight.

AwardsDe la Cruz won team honors including the Ecuadorian Serie A with Barcelona S.C. and LDU Quito, the Copa do Brasil and Copa Libertadores with Cruzeiro. He was part of Ecuador's squad that reached the World Cup Round of 16 in 2006.

Honours & Distinctions

First Ecuadorian in Scottish football

Hibernian F.C.·2001

Became the first Ecuadorian to play in Scotland.

Key figure in Ecuador's first World Cup qualification

Ecuador national team·2002

Helped Ecuador qualify for their first World Cup.

101 international caps

Ecuador national team·2010

One of the most capped Ecuadorian players.

Rankings & Lists

#Listed

Best South American Players in Aston Villa History

Aston Villa fan media·2026

Records & Feats

First Ecuadorian to play in Scottish football

Historic First·2001

Joined Hibernian in 2001, breaking new ground for Ecuadorian players.

101 caps for Ecuador

Career Milestone·2010

Among the most capped players in Ecuadorian national team history.